Ruben Amorim was quite ruthless as Manchester United revamped their attacking line in the summer.
In came Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko, while Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund were moved on.
The Dane, who had a dismal 2024/25 campaign, was heartbroken at the club’s decision, but INEOS did not care, as they felt it was necessary to upgrade up top.
The Slovenian was signed for big money from RB Leipzig, and while Bundesliga viewers have seen his skills firsthand, the 22-year-old is yet to fire for the Red Devils.
Amorim wants another striker
Some have called for a bit of patience, considering his inexperience in the English top-flight, and the head coach does not want to put too much pressure on his young shoulders.
As a result, he wants INEOS to sign another No.9 next summer, and for that, he is willing to cast aside yet another Erik ten Hag signing, Joshua Zirkzee.
The Dutchman, described as a “real baller“, impressed a lot of peoples with his link-up play, close ball control and an eye for a pass, but he was primarily brought in to score goals.
And on that front, the 24-year-old fell woefully short, managing a meagre seven goals in the whole of last season.
And Amorim does not think the ex-Bologna ace has it in his to thrive in his system, and with multiple clubs chasing his signature, the Red Devils are ready to cash in.
“Manchester United are open to parting ways with Joshua Zirkzee, with TEAMtalk sources indicating the club is eager to offload him and secure a replacement, with multiple clubs keeping an eye on the striker.
“According to insiders, the Red Devils are fielding multiple enquiries for the 24-year-old, with Juventus leading the chase but far from alone in their pursuit.
Zirkzee could make way
“Other Serie A sides have also expressed keen interest, viewing Zirkzee as a potential boost to their attacking options. This development could accelerate a departure sooner than anticipated, especially as Amorim seeks to bolster his forward line.
“The Portuguese tactician is particularly interested in adding competition for Benjamin Sesko.
“Zirkzee, for his part, remains determined to prove his worth at the Premier League giants. Sources close to the player reveal his eagerness to demonstrate he belongs at this level, but opportunities are dwindling amid fierce competition and tactical shifts under Amorim.”
Just like Hojlund, Joshua Zirkzee is keen to stay and fight for his place, and he has this season to try and impress the head coach.
Or else, he might also be heading back to the Serie A to resurrect his career, like his former strike partner.
Feature image Jan Kruger via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25